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GOALS

SIMPLIFY THE NEW CODE

The new code outlines a more transparent and predictable process – one that simplifies and clarifies. It is shorter, more readable – using plain language and defines all terms – and easier to understand. Simple, easy to read tables, flow charts, illustrations and images are included throughout to help organize and explain various restrictions and requirements within the code. The code also lists all administrators and officials by title and describes their responsibilities. This will reduce confusion for users and administrators alike.

The current Code has become not only outdated but also overly complex, with hundreds of overlay districts, Urban Renewal Plans and Planned Unit Developments. Understanding and working within these complexities can be expensive, time-consuming and unpredictable.

CREATE NEW TOOLS TO SUPPORT AND GUIDE CITY INVESTMENTS

New zoning categories in the Code – residential, business and manufacturing and numerous specialized districts, such as, Educational, Hospital, Transit-Oriented Development and Open Space – will promote pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use development, allow for the creative and flexible reuse of older buildings, encourage campus master planning and protect open space amongst other things.

PRESERVE THE UNIQUE CHARACTER OF BALTIMORE CITY

In many neighborhoods, architectural features, such as cornices, roof shape, front stoops, and porch-fronts, play a significant role in defining a neighborhood. This character attracts residents, provides for neighborhood pride, and ultimately helps define our city as one of neighborhoods.

With new design guidelines, our neighborhoods will transform over time into pedestrian- friendly, attractive places to shop, work and enjoy. The new code has design standards to improve the quality of Baltimore’s built environment, which restricts building materials, while allowing for modern approaches to building design. It allows for exciting new buildings to be built throughout downtown, while creating specific architectural guidelines in some of the older areas that have a unique character to be maintained.